You hear it all the time: Choosing the right early education and child care center is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. But as any D.C.-area family can attest, just finding care is a challenge. The ratio of infants and toddlers to available spaces in area child care centers hovers at around four to one.
But finding a center that also provides the “high-quality” early childhood education that young children need to be ready for kindergarten — and beyond — is another challenge.
“All children deserve access to high-quality early childhood education because it does make a measurable difference in their lives,” says Dr. Elanna Yalow, KinderCare Education’s chief academic officer. “Studies show that children who attend high-quality programs are better prepared for school, have higher high school graduation rates, and even have better long-term health.”
So how can you tell “high-quality” from so-so or no-go? This guide can help you find the best early childhood education setting for your family.
Step 1: Choose an Accredited Center. Think of accreditation as a big gold star in the world of early childhood education. (Nationally, only about 10 percent of centers are accredited.) Accredited centers meet rigorous standards in everything from teacher qualifications to curriculum to safety.
Step 2: Know Your Family’s Values — and Stick to ‘Em. Before you tour a program, think about what you need from a center, what you want for your child and any concerns you may have, no matter how large or small. Do you need commuting convenience? Are you concerned how a teacher will handle your spirited child when they (inevitably) knock down other kids’ block towers?
Make a list. Use your answers as a conversation guide on your tours and don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions.
Step 3: Check for the Basics.
• Cleanliness: The center should be clean and tidy.
• Safety: A strong emergency plan and the ability to explain it in detail is a must.
• Nutrition: Whole grains, fruits, veggies and no extra sugars are key.
Step 4: Look for a Classroom Made for Learning. Whether you’ve got a whirling dervish, a whiz kid or a quiet one, a great classroom empowers every child to reach their full learning potential. Great classrooms …
• Invite exploration by providing easy access to many learning possibilities, including science stations, art supplies and games.
• Encourage reading by placing books within easy reach and labeling objects to boost early literacy.
• Build a sense of belonging by hanging art at kids’ eye-level and labeling cubbies with names and pictures.
Step 5: Look for a Skilled Teacher with Passion and Heart. If children love their teacher, they’ll love school — and learning. Take the time to observe teachers with the children in the classroom. Are the children engaged? Do the teachers seem to enjoy being with the children? Ask them what they love about teaching littles, or if you have a concern about your child, bring it up. Their answers will tell you a lot about their passions and their openness to working with you!
Step 6: Trust Your Instincts. When in doubt, trust your gut! Did you feel listened to and understood? Was the center warm and welcoming? If you’re unsure, go back for a second visit. A great center will be more than happy to honor your request and make the experience all about you and your family!
SPONSORED CONTENT:
For nearly 50 years, KinderCare Learning Centers have been a place where every child, starting as early as six weeks, can learn, explore, and discover in a safe and nurturing environment in more than 1,280 community-based centers — including our newest centers at Penn Quarter and the Watergate Complex. These two centers add 192 spaces to the D.C. child care market and feature biometric security and made from scratch meals. We lead the nation in accredited centers and are passionate about providing children a sense of discovery while preparing them for success in school and beyond. To learn more visit us online at www.KinderCare.com. For resources, information, and activity ideas for parents and teachers of young children please visit www.KinderCare.com/content-hub.
